All 15 of Belgium’s chief prosecutors have urged the Federal Government to develop a long-term vision for the justice system in a joint open letter.
The Belgian justice system's main leaders united on Thursday at a unique press conference in Brussels for a formal signing of the letter, which has been sent to the offices of the Prime Minister and Justice Minister.
For several weeks, magistrates nationwide have been highlighting the "alarming state" of the Belgian judicial system, pointing to the rising number of suspended court sessions as well as a mass mailing of prison letters. The Ghent Court of Appeal even posted a sarcastic job vacancy online last month.
These concerns were reiterated by all 15 prosecutors on Thursday. "This gathering is a historic first," said Geert Merchiers, head of the East Flanders. Public Prosecutor’s Office.
The open letter is urging the Federal Government, particularly Prime Minister De Wever (N-VA) and Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden (CD&V), to implement "structural measures" and devise a "long-term vision for justice." Merchiers stated, "No more flash-in-the-pan policies."
The letter criticises the chronic underfunding of the justice system, highlighting excessive workloads, staff shortages, a lack of facilities in areas like youth care, dilapidated buildings, and the endangerment of magistrates’ physical safety.
These issues have been well-known for decades, yet aside from some "ad-hoc measures," little substantial action has been taken in recent legislative periods, according to the magistrates.
Credit: Belga
"Today, more than ever, we call for consistency between words and deeds," the prosecutors write. "Empty promises only fuel frustration and misunderstanding and endanger our valuable societal model."
During the press conference, the magistrates also expressed concern over the "attractiveness" of their profession, fearing that the federal government’s pension plans could further diminish it.
"How will we continue to find enough police officers, translators, interpreters, legal experts, or recovery services?” asked Vincent Fiasse, Charleroi’s chief prosecutor. "Those working today are highly dedicated," he said, "but a minimum level of recognition is needed."
The letter’s authors express satisfaction with the formation of working groups and are willing to participate "constructively." However, they note it remains “entirely unclear” whether the entire government supports the approach and is genuinely ready to act on the conclusions.
Justice Minister Verlinden assured Thursday in Parliament that there is indeed a willingness to act. "Since taking office, I have advocated for sufficient resources for Justice. I have held repeated discussions with the magistrates and share their concerns about workload, infrastructure, digital support, safety issues, and working conditions," she stated.
Verlinden emphasised that the established task forces must lead to an action plan for and by those on the ground. "Since this prime minister and government value security highly, I am convinced there will be a willingness to bolster justice in the coming months and years," the minister concluded.
